Recalling young actor Seth Horne from past First Stage shows, what stands out is a seemingly incorruptible innocence, inscribed in a sensitive, open face that reflects an unabashed enthusiasm for life. In a memorable show like "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," for example, Horne's projection of Charlie's fundamental, rock-solid goodness stood in stark contrast to the bratty kids accompanying Charlie on tour.

But kids grow up, often losing their sense of magic along the way; many of them become bullies. In the First Stage production of "Crash," that's the rocky road being traveled by seventh-grader John "Crash" Coogan — convincingly played by Horne, in the Defense Cast of alternating young actors I saw Saturday night. | March 30, 2014»Read Full Article